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32328 Qualities and Attributes of a Good Employeehttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-qualities-and-attributes-of-a-good-employee/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-qualities-and-attributes-of-a-good-employee/#respondThu, 14 Mar 2019 23:15:55 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2272If you own any business, you know just how important it is to have good employees. These are the people that will help keep your company in the best of shape. Regardless of the products or services you’re trying to sell, you’ll want to have a reliable staff with good personal qualities. This makes it more critical than ever to look for employees that have the right attributes for your business.

When you are putting together your staff, remember these eight following attributes of a good employee:

Fortunately, many individuals do want to work, and this makes your job much more comfortable. However, it can be challenging to find people that can not only do the work but are qualified.

Attribute #2: Reliable

You’ll want to place many tasks that you just can’t go into the hands of your staff. While you may love to take on a lot of responsibilities, it’s too much to do it all.

It’s imperative to have a staff that’s reliable and genuinely wishes to be there for the company. However, this attribute may grow in time and could depend more on the salary and benefits that are being paid.

Attribute #3: Good communicator

Communication is one of the key attributes of a good employee, since so many things are likely to go on in a day on the job. This is why you need a staff that is willing and able to communicate with you throughout the shift.

Don’t put off having meetings and other things that can allow you to know what current needs to be met. It’s ideal for holding a weekly or monthly meeting and discussing the current status for all departments.

Attribute #4: Positive attitude

It’s a fact that most people just don’t want to work with a person that’s negative all day. This can make any job more difficult to do and certainly more challenging for the entire company.

If at all possible, you’ll want to hire people that are positive and wish to be a good influence on the company. This will take some work to find, and may require you to dig deeper with behaviour assessments, but you should be able to get an idea of the personality of this individual during the interview.

Attribute #5: Qualified

Does the person you’re thinking of hiring have the training and qualifications that are necessary for success? For instance, you don’t want to hire a plumber for a nursing job.

Take a long look at the person’s resume to determine if this is the best employee you can find. You’ll need to rely on this individual for many things, and it’s crucial to make the right hiring choice.

Attribute #6: Team oriented

Being able to work well with others is very important for any employee or business. If you feel that this individual can do the job and has a team spirit, it may be a good idea to add this person to your company.

You don’t want people that tend to avoid direction and don’t take time to learn what’s needed. You’ll be much better off by hiring a person that enjoys working with others and has a team spirit.

Attribute #7: Enthusiastic

Working with people that are excited to be a part of your company is very important. This can change the entire dynamic in your business and may allow other employees to be happier about being there.

Taking the right amount of time to choose enthusiastic people is one of the top things you can do. It’s ideal for working with this variety of individuals at all times.

Attribute #8: Grateful

You may soon learn that relying on people that are full of gratitude could be the ideal way to keep your business running. Do you have some employees that love what they do and wish to maintain a position at your facility? It’s likely that many of the employees you do have that are grateful to be there may go the extra mile This could include doing more things that are asked from you and working to ensure the job gets done promptly.

As a business owner, there are many things you’re looking for from your employee. Choosing a person that has the right skill set should always be foremost on your mind. Taking the appropriate amount of time in doing the hiring is one of the top ways to avoid selecting the wrong candidate for the job. You can allow your company to be a much more successful one by merely choosing the best people to work for you!

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-qualities-and-attributes-of-a-good-employee/feed/08 Most Creative Packaging Design Ideashttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-most-creative-packaging-design-ideas/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-most-creative-packaging-design-ideas/#respondFri, 01 Mar 2019 12:49:37 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2221Packaging is incredibly diverse and serves all sorts of requirements. It plays an important role in the brand identity of your company. Today, experts can create the most creative packaging design ideas that go beyond ordinary cardboard boxes. Your organization can obtain a customized designed package from a company that source materials, manufactures and delivers the package right to your doorstep. These creative packaging design ideas will generate attention and appeal to your customers.

It is possible that consumers can make a purchase decision on the product packaging as well. This is why it is important to have an eye-catching package that stands out, especially when sitting on retail shelves. Your organization can take advantage of the packaging to offer product information, highlight the company logo and brand name, including advertise with a catchy statement.

Here are the most creative packaging design ideas to get you and your organization started. These creative packaging design ideas will help you build an outstanding package that your customers will like!

Idea #1: Attractive paper bags

Paper bags can do more than just carry a product. Your organization can add color, logos and more on this type of packaging. There are a handful of companies that offer 100% recycled paper that can be customized for your store or food outlet. These paper bags are strong and do not tear easily.

Your organization can consider the paper bag option to keep your budget down and still achieve branding for your packaging. Paper bag packaging is environmentally friendly, but they are not suited for all types of products. They are commonly used for food and light items.

Idea #2: Pre-print packages

A photo is worth a thousand words. Color or photos on your product packaging are a good way to advertise. You can achieve more from your packaging, than just carrying and protecting the product. If your organization is thinking about branding for your packaging, you can consider the pre-printed option that offers 100% color quality print on packages. The packaging can be printed to use high-resolution photos bringing out the strong vibrant colors of your brand. Use your packaging to advertise to your target customers.

Idea #3: Patterns

Your organization can dress up product packaging with attractive patterns. It can make a package design look distinctive. Zigzag or checkered, you can choose the pattern that best compliments the product. Do not be afraid to consider some bold patterns and colors. This is when you differentiate your packaging from the rest. However, even soft neutral patterns can be effective, as loud patterns does not always work for every type of organization. It will all depend on your product and the message you want to convey.

Idea #4: Illustrations

Packaging can tell a story. If you do not want to use photos, you can use content-rich illustrations that tell a story and are engaging. Your packaging can be designed to create a fantasy world especially if it is a chocolate brand or kid’s toy.

Illustrations can help the customer understand the product in the package and its usage. The illustration offers visual dominance and can impress customers instantly, including trigger curiosity about your organization’s brand.

Idea #5: Retail packaging

Your organization has to be absolute certain that the product packaging will catch the eyes of your target customers. Recognition of your brand with the correct type of packaging will help to drive sales. Nowadays, you can design packages that work for your point-of-purchase displays.

These packages are retail ready and offers maximum decorative solutions. These creative packaging design ideas have proven to increase sales. It will make your product stand out at any retail location. Retail packaging will make sure that your product is not left on the shelf for a long time.

Idea #6: Different shapes

Packaging does not always have to be a square shape. They can be made as a circle, triangle or even a hexogen box. You can make packages that are shaped around and even compliment your products. You can even have packaging with cutouts that display a bit of your product. Many food companies want to offer a sneak peek of their products.

Idea #7: Eco-friendly packaging

Recycling may not come to mind when it involves creativity for packaging. Today, you can be creative with recycled materials whether corrugated or paper. Your organization can embrace the green solution packaging option that is a benefit for the planet.

At the same time, it will strengthen your organization’s brand image for being environmentally responsible. Eco-friendly packages will help your organization’s products stand out from other similar competition products.

Idea #8: Sleek and simple packaging

Simplicity can go a long way. Your organization does not have to worry about whether it will stand out or not especially, if your organization is aiming to be sustainable. The earth colors and recycled materials appeal to your customers. Even with simple packaging designs, you can create a sleek and appealing look that works for your customers.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/8-most-creative-packaging-design-ideas/feed/06 Office Etiquette Tips and Rules in the Workplacehttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-office-etiquette-tips-and-rules-in-the-workplace/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-office-etiquette-tips-and-rules-in-the-workplace/#respondSat, 23 Feb 2019 21:51:15 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2179Professionalism is key to success in any office environment. People often have difficulty nailing down exactly what ‘professionalism’ entails and how it relates to their day to day actions. Whether you’re a first-time employee looking to make the right first impression or an office veteran looking to get ahead, these office etiquette tips can help you become the office superstar you were born to be.

Here are six office etiquette tips and rules to follow in the workplace:

Tip 1: Keep It Professional

Professionalism is one of the most important office etiquette tips to follow. An aloof Brando-esque demeanor might have helped you get ahead in your social life, but it might not be appropriate in an office environment. The ‘cool is king’ mentality often directs the actions of new office hires who think that a devil-may-care attitude will elevate them in the eyes of their coworkers, but most just find this casual mindset irritating in what is supposed to be a purely professional environment.

Managers are looking for dedicated professionals who take their work seriously. If you ever find yourself ‘winging it’, you’re making the wrong call. Stay dedicated to your work while at work and you’ll find yourself advancing quickly.

Tip 2: Know When to Critique

In any team environment, the ability to effectively communicate your opinion on the work of others is a critical factor for success. It’s important to draw the line between providing useful feedback and being overly critical of others. Always make sure that the feedback you provide to your coworkers is a well-thought-out assessment of the idea or work itself and never some sort of ill-willed jab towards an individual.

Care should be taken to consider how others are going to perceive what you have to say. People typically judge themselves by their intentions while they judge others by their actions. It’s important to make sure that your communication is clear in its content and tone, to avoid making people feel uncomfortable during typical office collaboration.

Tip 3: Cleanliness Is Key

Cleanliness is another important office etiquette. The professional environment tends to set the bar higher than it would be at home or in other social situations. Slobs are highly unwelcome in this environment. Always make sure to keep a clean work area and a neat appearance. Anyone taking note of issues with your personal hygiene immediately forms a negative opinion, which can severely detract from any assessment of your actual work.

If you find yourself thinking, “I can go another day without a shave” or “this shirt isn’t THAT dirty”, you’re almost certainly committing some sort of office faux-pas. Whatever standards you might enjoy in your personal life need to be eschewed in favor of whatever the standard is at your particular work environment.

Tip 4: Watch the Office Politics

A nice piece of juicy gossip might look like a quick way to get into the good graces of whoever you’re sharing it with, but it isn’t. These kind of juvenile schoolyard antics don’t have any place in a professional setting. Developing a reputation as some sort of blabber-mouth will make your co-workers weary around you.

While it might not seem so bad if they were to keep their personal lives to themselves, you might find this apprehension bleeding over into work-related situations. You’re unlikely to move up quickly if you turn yourself into an office pariah.

Tip 5: Don’t Be Late

If it’s your first time working in an office environment, you might very well find yourself with less rigid clock-in requirements than if you had been working retail before. Showing up a few minutes late or knocking off a few minutes early might not have dire consequences – at least not immediately.

While there may not be an immediate reprimand, your boss is probably well aware that you aren’t showing up on time. If this is a regular thing for you, they will begin to form an image of a person who just doesn’t care about the work they are doing. Always showing up on time helps you develop a reputation of professionalism and go-getterism. This is something to take into account whenever you’re tempted to hit the snooze button one more time. Just remember that timeliness is an important office etiquette!

Tip 6: Clear Communication

Find someone you consider a success and ask them what they consider the most fundamental skill for any business is, they’ll answer communication. While you might have a fantastic idea up in your head, if you can’t communicate it to anyone it’s worthless. The ability to communicate clearly with your co-workers is an important office etiquette to abide by in the workplace.

Be deliberate with your words and always think about what you’ve got to say. This can avoid misunderstandings that could have disastrous consequences with people you have to see essentially every day. The ability to clearly communicate an idea to co-worker will make you beloved around the office. Without miscommunicated ideas fouling the routine operations of the office, everyone will be able to go about their work much more smoothly and, as a result of this, office morale will increase.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-office-etiquette-tips-and-rules-in-the-workplace/feed/012 Good Leadership Skills for Business Executiveshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/12-good-leadership-skills-for-business-executives/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/12-good-leadership-skills-for-business-executives/#respondTue, 12 Feb 2019 20:33:23 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2079Senior-level executives need to possess a certain set of good leadership skills in order to thrive and succeed. When hiring or promoting executives, aim at recruiting people who are not only professionally qualified, but who also possess the soft skills needed for effective leadership. Since you expect them to take the business to higher heights, due diligence is imperative.

Here are 12 good leadership skills you should look for when hiring senior-level executives.

1. Problem Solving Skills

Problem solving is a good leadership skill to have. If you are hiring a senior executive to solve problems, do a background check to establish how well they solved problems in the past. If the individual has a history of solving problems in past postings, this is a plus. Avoid hiring leaders who are ill-prepared to deal with a real-time crisis. The tenacity and willingness to face problems and solve them are what sets a leader apart.

2. Critical Thinking Skills

Critical thinking is another good leadership skill that you should look for. Recruit a leader who views the entire organization as an ecosystem. They should understand the decisions they make eventually influence other areas of the business.

3. Passion

Passion is a critical component when recruiting senior executives. This should not be hard since an individual with passion is not that hard to spot. A senior-level leader must be able to align with the mission of the company and passionately communicate the same to the team. It is critical for an executive to vocalize the company’s purpose effectively.

4. Action-Oriented

Look for action-oriented leaders. Aim at hiring executives who don’t wait for someone else to cast the vision. While some individuals are good at coming up with new ideas and solutions, not all of them are great at implementing them. The goal of recruiting is to have senior executives who can own circumstances and promptly take action. Always aim at hiring action-oriented leaders to maximize your profits.

5. Unquestionable Integrity

Integrity is a trait you should always look for when recruiting senior executives. Senior executives must be ethical and morally upright. Hire people who can be trusted by both the organization and employees. These individuals should be able to create an environment of trust in the workplace. Recruit a selfless executive with the best interest of the organization and its workers at heart.

6. Strategic Thinking Skills

When hiring senior executives, look for individuals who can sell the company’s vision effectively. Such an executive should hire the best talent and then educate them on the company’s long-term goals.

7. Flexibility

A good leader must be flexible. The fast-paced nature of today’s workplace demands leadership that can adapt to new trends. You need a quick thinker and a fast learner. Probe to find out if a candidate is versatile enough to work at a strategic planning level as well as help in the execution of action plans.

8. Ambition

For a business to expand into new horizons, you need a risk-taker who does not fear to fail but instead learns from their mistakes. Risk taking is a critical element of good leadership. A risk taker undertakes a task without the fear of failure.

The successful candidate must be a bold individual with zero fear of failure. They should also overcome the fear of success, the fear of looking like a fool, and the fear of appearing excessively aggressive. This should be a person ready to confront their fears and have the courage to forge ahead in spite of circumstances and odds.

9. Humility

Good leaders are humble people. Avoid hiring egocentric leaders. A proud leader is bound to repel employees and negatively affect their work. A humble leader is effective in building trust and respect. Such a leader solicits the input of others and has no problem admitting mistakes. An organization thrives under a leader who is humble enough to accept change in case the current plan fails.

10. Empathy

Look for evidence of empathy in prospective candidates. Executives inspire teams towards a vision. They automatically attract an employee’s undivided loyalty. If the employees are convinced the leader is not just interested in their function but their well-being as well, they willingly help them achieve the company’s vision. Empathy enables leaders to look at issues from many perspectives across an organization and how they impact decisions.

11. Influence

A leader must have influence. Since the business sector is ever changing, leadership must involve the skill to positively influence teams to navigate new fields. Good executives are good mentors before they are anything else. Transformational leaders are those with influence. To grow your company exponentially, hire a leader who can influence others.

12. Authenticity

Authenticity is the key to good leadership. A person who is true to himself or herself, no matter how uncomfortable a situation may be, is a highly influential leader. Look for evidence of authenticity by asking uncomfortable questions. If he/she is authentic during the interview, they will most certainly be authentic in the workplace. The last thing you want is a clown, a person who misrepresents him/herself.

The quality of the senior executive you hire determines the trajectory your business takes. Great soft skills are the stuff great leaders are made off.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/12-good-leadership-skills-for-business-executives/feed/010 Types of Brochures for Medical Officeshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-types-of-brochures-for-medical-offices/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-types-of-brochures-for-medical-offices/#respondSat, 26 Jan 2019 19:39:21 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1917People are visual. They are attracted by what they see rather than what they hear. To attract their attention, messaging media such as brochures have to be visually appealing. Most people assume a medical brochure should just state its point and get out of the way without having to fret over visuals. The reality is that patients are first attracted to your brochure by how it looks, not its contents.

Brochures can be found along corridors and other places where they can be easily picked. They are easy to distribute and are ideal marketing handouts for your products and services. Organizations use brochures to showcase their products and services to their clientele. That brochures work is evidenced by the fact that they have withstood the onslaught of digital marketing and other publicity products. Besides the fact that they are economical to produce, there is something unique about holding an attractively designed brochure in your hand.

Below are 10 types of brochures for medical offices.

1. Gate Fold Brochure

These types of brochures are rare due to their cost, but if used correctly, they can have a great impact. They are best used for high-end marketing and are made of high-quality paper. Their durability makes it possible for the brochure to impact readers for a longer period. Secondary distribution is common since one brochure can safely move through many hands without getting damaged. Its eight-panel structure provides the designer with adequate space to insert information and images.

2. Tri-Fold Brochure

This is perhaps the most common type of brochure. It is cost-efficient to produce. With its six panels and three folds, it has enough space for whatever content you want to insert. Easily portable, the tri-fold brochure is also attractive.

3. Bi-Fold Brochure

A bi-fold brochure folds in half to form four panels: two internal panels and the front cover and back cover. Its main strength is its simplicity, which allows a reader to quickly absorb its contents.

4. Booklet Brochure

A booklet is an advanced bi-fold brochure with multiple pages. This brochure can be modified to have as many pages as are needed to accommodate as much information as you can.

5. Leaflets

A leaflet brochure, also known as a flyer, is appropriate when you want to target a large number of people. Be unique and innovative to make your leaflets stand out of the crowded leaflets space. The light material used for this type of brochure facilitates easy distribution. Content for this brochure must be direct, concise and catchy in order to communicate the central message as quickly and effectively as possible.

6. Folders and Inserts

These are basically bi-fold brochures; the only difference being that they feature additional folders. They are perfect for storing feedback forms or any other information that one may gather from the field.

7. ‘Z’ Fold Brochure

The name is derived from the way the brochure folds. It forms what looks like letter ‘z’ once folded. The ‘Z’ fold is beautiful to look at. You will enjoy reading it. Further folds make it look like an accordion, hence its other nickname, the accordion fold brochure. It helps business people to present information about their wares and services in detail. This folder is also a good alternative to a tri-fold brochure.

Apart from categorizing brochures according to the layout, they can also be categorized by the intended use. A brochure’s first quality must be being reader-friendly. You must always keep in mind the interests of the intended user. Here are more types of brochures classified according to the intended use.

8. Response Brochures

These are brochures that answer to customer inquiries. These are people who have already shown interest in the products or services offered by a firm. The customers are seeking additional information on your product or service to help them confirm their purchase. Its aim is to close a sale, not to advertise.

9. Checkout Brochures

These are brochures meant for an easy quick read. Their aim is to attract new customers and convert them into regular loyal customers. They are placed strategically near the paying point or waiting area for easy pick up by customers as they wait for their payment to be processed. The design is attractive enough to draw the attention of a customer at first glance.

10. Direct Mail Brochures

As the name suggests, these brochures are sent via mail to inform the customer of some new or additional information unknown to them. They are specific in messaging and contain only the relevant message, nothing more.

The image of a doctor’s office depends on the way it is presented. It also depends on the available services, and in what format they are presented. Whatever format you choose to communicate your message, an attractive, yet functional, brochure targeted to relevant clients can greatly improve both the image and growth of your medical office.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/10-types-of-brochures-for-medical-offices/feed/0Public Relations vs. Marketing: What Are the Differences?http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/public-relations-vs-marketing-what-are-the-differences/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/public-relations-vs-marketing-what-are-the-differences/#respondTue, 22 Jan 2019 14:19:26 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=2062With new technology and increased acceptance of public relations by executive teams, both public relations and marketing have grown more complex. Both areas of expertise are moving towards more distinctly separate roles in business.

While the differences between marketing and public relations are easy to describe from a tactical point of view, it’s often harder to describe how each role contributes overall to a business’ success. It’s important for companies to be able to tell the difference between public relations and marketing, but it’s as equally important to understand that marketing and public relations are reliant on each other. Without them both, a business will not succeed.

Here’s our breakdown to compare the differences between public relations and marketing:

1. Target Audiences

One key difference between public relations and marketing is the target audience. Public relations is all about keeping up positive relationships with anyone with an interest in the brand or organization, including media, customers, shareholders, and employees. Meanwhile, the goal of marketing is to reach both potential and current customers.

2. Tactics and Activities

Marketing ends to cover direct marketing, promotional, and advertising that seeks to return direct sales. Public relations is more focused on managing a brand or company’s reputation by generating positive media coverage and positive communication with stakeholders.

3. Legitimacy of Messages

The messages received through PR chapels like reputable bloggers, articles, or conference speakers are seen by consumers as being more legitimate than messages presented through marketing tactics. In most cases, people can tell that marketing and advertising are done because of a company’s desire to increase sales. When it comes to articles with a well-known writer’s name on them ted to be received as a credible source by the consumer.

4. Two Goals

The goal of a public relations team is to sell the brand or company through positive marketing between a company and its stakeholders. Marketing goals are to reach consumers and to make them do something, buy something, or think about some kind of item or service. Marketing is all about selling the product or service, thus they are all about achieving direct revenue whereas public relations is about trying to drive a positive reputation using effective strategies.

5. Longevity

Marketing activities are relatively short-term while public relations sees benefits over a long period of time. Thus, marketing should result in instant and tangible sales success while public relations is more of a long-term investment that will return future achievements.

6. Business ROI

Marketing is a business investment: paid promotional and branding activities with the ROI (return on investment) being new customers. It’s harder to classify public relations, but technically it is free exposure for increasing the credibility around a brand or company’s image. It’s harder to measure ROI for public relations than for marketing because it’s harder to track a change in beliefs or spending habits based on PR than it is to track direct sales.

7. Metrics of Success

Near the end of a marketing campaign, a marketer can ask a few questions to determine if the campaign was successful.

Looking at how much you spent on the marketing campaign compared to the profit made from sales, was the ROI of the campaign high?

Did the product you marketed meet or exceed your sales goals?

Did your marketing generate a great buzz from industry influencers, social media followers, customers, and the general public?

A PR person would measure his or her success like this:

Plenty of good press in connected trade and top-tier publications and broadcast outlets, either for the brand or a product.

Awards won at high-profile events.

A great speech given by one of the company’s executives at a high-profile event that generates more good press.

Lots of positive buzz from journalists, social media followers, industry influencers, and the general public as a whole.

8. Overlap

To be fair, you cannot market a company or product without doing a little PR, and you can’t do a little public relations without some marketing. This is because the end goals of selling your product and making people happy are two intertwined. If no one likes your products, the public probably won’t think much of your company, and if people don’t connect with your brand, they probably won’t purchase your products.

Add in the wonders of social media, and you have the ability to either benefit greatly or suffer terribly from its access. One minute, you could be dealing with journalists on Twitter or managing a disgruntled consumer over Facebook in the next.

9. Digital Marketing and Digital Public Relations

Similar to more traditional channels, digital marketing includes any activities that drive an instant action from consumers, like promotions, ads, search marketing, and EDMs. Digital PR’s concept keeps its relationship management function, with more emphasis placed on social media channels.

Some companies have found that moving marketing to social media can actually negatively impact a brand, so the trend has been for social media being handled by PR experts instead of marketers.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/public-relations-vs-marketing-what-are-the-differences/feed/09 Small Business Shipping Tips for Entrepreneurshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-small-business-shipping-tips-for-entrepreneurs/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-small-business-shipping-tips-for-entrepreneurs/#respondThu, 17 Jan 2019 19:44:14 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1927You don’t have re-invent the wheel for your small shipping business to thrive. As an entrepreneur, your goal is to deliver value for money to your customers. There is enough information to make your shipping process easier and effective. The following nine small business shipping tips should help your company grow.

1. Create a Reliable Shipping Carrier Partnership

Do a search on trustworthy companies that offer transport management services. Identify one with a list of their current rates and carrier standards. You will find an option that fits your business needs and budget. Make sure it has a track-and-trace system since not all carriers have this feature. This system will facilitate control of your shipment and location of products at any transit point. It doubles up as a safety measure and a tool to inform your shipment schedule.

2. Know the Carrier’s Resources

Some types of shipping require specialized carriers. Depending on your shipment material, identify a carrier service with the equipment needed to move your goods safely and properly. Seek to understand their shipping experience for similar goods and the safety measures in place to allow smooth transit. You should also identify a shipping line that will accommodate your growth. If your business requires specialized shipping, get a carrier with a reputation for delivering in that specialty.

3. Abide by the Rules and Regulations

Shipping is governed by rules and regulations. Understand the applicable guidelines for your shipping business. Specific rules apply for each shipping location and destination. Not all products can be shipped. Always consult your shipping carrier before sending your package. This saves you additional charges, delays and legal barriers.

4. Make Sure the Carrier Is Compliant

Ensure your choice carrier has complied with all legal requirements. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) grants legal authority to compliant carriers. It requires carriers to keep a record of legal process agent documents, comply with safety standards, and file specific registrations. To find out if your carrier meets these requirements, query the FMCSA’s database. You can reconsider or continue with caution if your carrier is listed as a non-compliant entity. A poor compliance history could mean no guarantees for the safety and security of your products.

5. Package Products Properly

To prevent damage to your parcel, ensure appropriate packaging is done. Taping the openings and seams of your boxes with a paper packing tape or a two-inch-wide clear, brown, reinforced tape is an easy and effective way of secure packaging. Avoid the mistake of using a cord, twine, duct tape, string, basic or masking tape. Never reuse shipping boxes for they lose their structural integrity with time. Fill empty spaces with newspapers to avoid shifting of packages during transit. Tightly secure boxes to pallets with shrinkwrap and make sure they are tightly and squarely stacked.

6. Understand the Limits of Carrier Liability

If your shipment is damaged in transit, don’t imagine the carrier’s basic liability program will safeguard its value. This common misconception will cause you to absorb the cost of your shipment mishap. There is a difference between carrier liability and insurance. To avoid surprises, understand what each party is responsible for. Get all the information you need on the specific liabilities that only you can shoulder, and those the carrier must cover.

7. Don’t Ignore Shipping Insurance

Although shipping insurance is optional, don’t overlook it. Due to the possibility of human error or damages to your package, it’s proper to insure your products. Your package is handled by many people across the supply chain before it reaches its destination. You are likely to recover the value of a stolen, lost or damaged shipment with insurance. Avoid the temptation of cutting down your cost of business by ignoring insurance. Otherwise, you may end up incurring costly expenses in the event loses or damages occur. Pass that risk to an insurer by paying your premiums for goods on transit.

8. Select Guaranteed Delivery

If your shipment must be delivered by a specific date, you need to select the guaranteed delivery potion. Don’t rely on delivery estimates for urgent orders. You may lose business and clients. Although shipping carriers schedule their deliveries, they may face uncertainties that could occasion unforeseen delays. A guaranteed delivery not only ensures timely and efficient service, but also a stress-free transaction.

9. Consider Air Delivery

Where delay and damage could be costly, consider air and other expedited delivery services. Your goods will experience less handling and higher priority to ensure a stress-free delivery. This is your ideal option for long distance shipping of valuable equipment. The less the number of handlers, the fast, efficient and convenient the process of doing business.

These small business shipping tips should give you a solid base for cost-effective and smart decisions. You will be shipping savvy as you dedicate your time to pursue excellence. Never be afraid of consulting experts or experienced shipping players. With these small business shipping tips, growth is not an option; it’s certain.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/9-small-business-shipping-tips-for-entrepreneurs/feed/05 Tips for a Successful Work Permit Applicationhttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-tips-for-a-successful-work-permit-application/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-tips-for-a-successful-work-permit-application/#respondThu, 03 Jan 2019 12:47:43 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1851You have received a job offer in another country. You will need to apply for a work application. Here are 5 tips to help you through the process, giving you the best opportunity to receive the work permit that you seek.

1. Apply early

Many countries in the developed world receive large amounts of immigration applications per year. Therefore, if you are looking to immigrate, you need to start the process early as processing times can be longer. This is especially true if you have to apply for a work permit for a specific start date.

As soon as you decide to apply for a work permit, do not delay in doing so. Before applying, check the checklist of all documentation you will need. This is all information that is required for your application to have a chance at success. If you do not have everything, chances are it will be rejected.

2. Confirm Labour Market Opinion (LMO)

An LMO is a document requested by a prospective employer in the country you are looking to immigrate to. It confirms that there is no permanent resident in that country able to do the job he/she wants to hire you for. In doing so, the employer is demonstrating why you need to be hired and your work permit application should be processed.

Before applying for a work permit, confirm with your prospective employer that they requested an LMO and that they have received it. You may also want to consider attempting to obtain a copy of it. Including it with your work permit application will boost the chances of it being accepted. It will also save the immigration officer from confirming its existence which can lead to quicker processing times.

3. Confirm application is complete

The last thing you want to happen is your work permit application being deemed as incomplete after you worked hard to fill it out and compile all required documents. This can result in delays and outright rejections, two things you cannot afford to let happen.

Before submitting your application, go over everything and ensure all fields are complete and accurate to the best of your knowledge. Also go over the checklist provided to ensure you have all required documents. These include your passport, photos, family information, the application for a work visa, and proof of relationships with family members who will be joining you.

4. Consult with an immigration lawyer

There is a good chance that this may be your first time applying for a work permit and some parts may be confusing. It may also be possible that while your comprehension of the language native to the country you want to relocate to may be good, there still may be barriers. Consequently, it is beneficial to consult with an immigration lawyer.

An immigration lawyer can review your application and ensure it is completed adequately. He/she can also ensure that you have all documentation required. Since immigration lawyers are experienced, they may know people in immigration offices. As a result he/she may be able to get information regarding wait times or the reasons for any delays that may occur.

5. Check status frequently

Advances in technology have given rise to a great number of conveniences and the ability of people to be able to serve themselves in a timely manner. This is especially helpful when it comes to checking the status of your work permit application.

When you apply for a work permit, whether by mail or online, chances are you will receive a reference number in return. This allows you to check the status of your application online either by giving the number to a telephone agent or entering it online. Doing so will allow you to determine the status of your application. Checking your status is recommended because in the event it is listed as incomplete you can take steps to remedy the situation before it is rejected altogether, causing you to start over or wait a designated time period.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/5-tips-for-a-successful-work-permit-application/feed/06 Business Growth Opportunities with CRM Systemshttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-business-growth-opportunities-with-crm-systems/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-business-growth-opportunities-with-crm-systems/#respondMon, 26 Nov 2018 01:34:39 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1806Your organization’s growth is dependent upon your customer relationships. You will need to manage these relationships as effectively and efficiently as possible.

You can use relationship management technology to improve your business performance, become more connected to customers, and grow your company. Here is how a real estate CRM can help grow your business.

1. Find Customers

You can spend all the time in the world attracting and generating new leads, but what next? Do you pass those on to your sales team? Do they know which leads are the hottest? When your real estate business is small but growing quickly, you need to make the most of your time and marketing tools by connecting marketing automation, email, and social networks with a CRM platform. Both your marketing and sales teams will be able to see leads and prospects so they can best use communications that will transform prospects into customers.

2. Build Better Relationships

When you have a complete view of a customer’s business with your company, you will be able to base your relationship on mutual success and trust. Find out what matters to your customers, and have follow-up actions for the end of every exchange. Put notes into your CRM so you will know where you left off.

With the right CRM, you will know how to recommend the right promotions and products, or any other content that might be relevant to a customer’s interests. Your clients will love that you can provide a personal experience, and when your business gets bigger and busier, a CRM platform can set up task reminders, email templates, and enable telephone calls that will help you stay on track to connect with your customers easier and faster.

3. Offer Better Customer Service

You can have great products, but if the customer service that goes with it is sub-par, you won’t be very successful. Don’t send multiple marketing promotions to your prospects. Follow up with customers after a sale. When your whole team can access each client’s history, anyone on the team will be able to offer quick and personalized solutions and messages.

4. Reduce the Cost of Sales

Did you know that the likelihood of selling to an existing customer is between 10 and 12 times higher than selling to a new prospect? New customers are definitely a major requirement for continued growth, but it costs money to get them. A CRM system can help you improve sales efficiency, boost your sales effectiveness, uncover referral business, and increase your cross-sell and up-sell opportunities.

5. Increase Productivity

Real estate agents who use the full range of their CRM advantages will be much more likely to be high-performing. The right technology will free up your teams from tasks that would otherwise cut into time they can spend connecting with customers. You can automate manual operations like entering data or hunting for contact information. Full automation across marketing, service, and sales will give your people more time to spend strengthening relationships with existing customers and talking to prospective customers. A great CRM will automate tasks so your teams can focus their time on selling.

6. Improve Customer Retention

When your team has access to all your relationships, they can proactively address any at-risk accounts and give satisfied customers with the right opportunities at the right moment in time. When you invest your time wisely to offer more satisfying service experiences and purchases, your customers will keep coming back for more. These strong relationships will continue to pay off for many years to come.

]]>http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-business-growth-opportunities-with-crm-systems/feed/06 Effective Ways for New Businesses to Save Moneyhttp://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-effective-ways-for-new-businesses-to-save-money/
http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/6-effective-ways-for-new-businesses-to-save-money/#respondTue, 20 Nov 2018 18:05:47 +0000http://www.bpositivemagazine.com/?p=1829No one ever said starting a business was easy. In fact, starting your own company is one of the most challenging and rewarding ventures you will ever take. The first few years of operation are usually the most difficult for most self-starters. In fact, most entrepreneurs shut their businesses down within the first five years. One of the main reasons that businesses fail in their early stages is money. Without having a steadfast brand and customer base, it is hard to bring in the revenue to pay corporate and personal expenses unless you seek viable business financing options.

Start-up costs, monthly utilities, and unexpected fees also add to the financial burdens most new business owners face. You can save money when first starting your services by minimizing your spending. These money saving tips can help lower your corporate costs so you can grow your company.

1. Pay With Cash

Adding another bill to your expenses will only add to your debt load and stress. If you need equipment, tools, devices, or furnishings for your company, buy as much as you can with cash. For bigger, more expensive items, try to put as much cash down for a down payment, then pay off the loan before purchasing more supplies.

2. Research Your Prices

Not all stores are priced equally. Before making any major decision, research all your prices and options first. Companies can offer sales, discounts, or other lowered pricing values so you can get the best bang for your buck.

3. Buy Second Hand Supplies

Many items and essential supplies can be bought second hand for a much lower price. Rather than spend your hard earned dollars on marked up retail costs, look for refurbished technology, used furniture, pre-owned machinery, and other products needed to start your company. You will save a lot of money initially and still be able to operate your services.

4. Barter With Other Business Owners

All newly started companies struggle with their finances. You can help each other while saving money by bartering services with each other. For example, if you are a mechanic but need an electrician to help rewire your office, you can trade services by offering to fix their company vehicle in exchange for free wiring work. Bartering is a win-win for most company owners. . Some cities have even started groups exclusive to business owners who are willing to barter with other companies, making it easier to network and exchanges benefits with each other.

5. Market For Free

Marketing is one of the most essential and costly expenses many corporate owners face. But there are plenty of ways to save cash by using the free tools and resources available. Social media, email mailouts, online forums, and word-of-mouth are great ways to advertise you services, promotions, and special events without the pricey expense.

6. Clean Your Emails

Most email programs charge fees for mailouts. If your email listings are not up-to-date, you could be wasting money sending your mailouts to unused or incorrect addresses. Each time you send out an email, check your reports to look for errors or invalid listings. Go though your list to make sure there are no typos and, if clients send you changes, update your system immediately so that it does not go unforgotten.

Being a new entrepreneur is hard; starting your own company is very expensive. Most business owners do not have the upfront cash to buy all the supplies and licenses they need to get started. To help reduce the burden, look for ways to lower your upfront costs so the first few years of your self-employment venture can be financially more manageable.